Overcoming Failure in Architecture Studies

I know the feeling of failure & losing hope that a dream isn’t within reach. But I’m here to tell you that it is.

Within my 7 years of Architecture studies, I’ve faced harsh critiques from jurors about a project, I’ve failed a quiz & an exam, & I’ve had to retake a class. Overcoming failure is about learning, growing, and persevering. Failure is an inevitable part of life and growth, but how you respond to it determines your future success. If I would have given up after each of those instances, I wouldn’t be who or where I am today.

Here are emotional and practical steps I took to bounce back that will help you overcome failure and emerge stronger:

Acknowledge & Accept Failure

It's natural to feel disappointed or frustrated. Give yourself permission to experience these emotions, but don't dwell on them. Accept that you have failed without making excuses. Acknowledging your failure is the first step towards overcoming it.

Learn from Experience

Identify the specific reasons behind your failure. Was it due to a lack of preparation, resources, or an unforeseen challenge? Write down the lessons learned from the experience. Understanding what went wrong can help you avoid similar mistakes in the future.

Change Your Mindset

Look at failure as a stepping stone to improve. Instead of seeing failure as a negative outcome, consider it as a part of the process that guides you towards success. Forgive yourself & move on. We are our own worst critic. Failure is what teaches us the most.

Create a Plan to Move Forward

Note key things that led to failing & how to learn from those moving forward. Revisit your goals & make a plan for how to move forward.

Stay Resilient & Persistent

Build mental toughness by staying positive and focused, even in the face of adversity. Practice mindfulness and stress management techniques. Persistence is key. Understand that success often comes after multiple failures. “Fail early, fail often, fail forward.”

Celebrate Your Wins

Recognize and celebrate your achievements along the way. This can motivate you to keep moving forward. Reflect often to remind yourself of how far you’ve come & where you’re heading - use this as motivation for your journey.

Stay Flexible

Sometimes, failure reveals the need to change your approach or strategy. Be willing to adapt and try new methods. Learning in life never ends. Stay curious and seek knowledge that can help you improve and innovate.

Maintain a Positive Outlook

Instead of dwelling on past failures, concentrate on future opportunities. Stay optimistic about your ability to succeed. Cultivate gratitude by focusing on what you have and the progress you've made.

My Advice for Overcoming Failure

Each of us will face obstacles on our path to achieving our dreams. The path in architecture is hard & isn’t linear.

My advice is to persevere, never stop working hard, & stay focused on your dreams.

Failure is a part of the journey, but how you overcome failure is up to you. Don’t allow failure to undermine your belief in your potential!

YOU CAN DO THIS.